Lobster Moth

ADULT: Wingspan 45-65mm. A large moth that appears, and is indeed, quite hirsute. The main pattern of the wing is nebulous and the colour varies from brown to green to grey. The russet brown along the trailing edge of the forewing is quite distinctive. CHRYSALIS: Overwinters as a pupa within dead leaves or soil. LARVA: June to September on a variety of trees including birch, hazel and beech. The large head, large thoracic legs and various humps and bumps give the appearance of a crustacean-like creature hence the moths name. BEHAVIOUR: Attracted to light. HABITAT: Woodland habitats and highly vegetated coastal areas. FLIGHT PERIOD: Single brooded. May to July. STATUS: Resident. Uncommon.